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A poll of roughly 1,000 home-based travel agents and franchise owners found that the Caribbean remains the top cruise destination. While more than 75% of the survey respondents said Caribbean cruises sold the best in the third quarter, 58% said the Caribbean is the most requested destination for travelers interested in a cruise next year.

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Travel industry observers, suppliers and international groups say that China, India and other emerging Asian economies will likely be among the first to see recovery in business travel. Some markets, including those in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East, have already seen an uptick in air traffic. Europe, on the other hand, continues to lag.

The Blue Train offers travelers a different view of South Africa as it glides from Cape Town to Pretoria. Passengers enjoy 24-hour butler service, great cuisine and some of the best South African wines. From the train's large windows, travelers get a glimpse into the soul of South Africa and its diverse landscape.

More than 1,300 travel agencies held World's Largest Cruise Night events this year, resulting in roughly $45 million in sales. The successful sales push adds to agents' optimism over cruise sales, which is one of the industry's most reliable segments. To help with sales, cruise lines are offering a variety of deals, new ships and other incentives, making it a great time to be selling cruises.

Developers in the Caribbean appear to believe that if they build it, tourists will come. Despite significant challenges to the global economy as well as the economy in the Caribbean, luxury hotels with lavish spas, large suites and infinity pools are being developed on many of the area's islands. Airlines and tourism boards are helping keep the tone optimistic by adding flights and activities.

Al-Qaida threats against German interests mentioned the country's federal elections in September, but the terrorist group continues to make threats against the country. The situation has prompted the U.S. State Department to issue a Travel Alert for Germany. Read the alert.